Spring Time Equals Style Time - guest post by Ash

Ah, spring -- flowers blooming, birds
chirping and best of all, fewer layers to weigh down your wardrobe. So with
warmer weather knocking at the door, you don't want to trade your snow boots
for last year's flip-flops. Instead, satisfy your need for brighter hues and
lighter fabrics with these tips for making this season's spring trends
functional for both day and night.

For the Office

Can't wait for that Caribbean getaway
this summer? Bring the sand and waves to the cubicle early by sporting a
classic straight-leg white pant with a coral or turquoise blouse. Top it off
with some matching wedges, gold bangles and a pastel manicure, and your office
look will wash away the Monday blues with effortless class. If, however, your
job calls for a uniform, it does not mean you need to disappear into a sea of
fellow co-workers. Stand out from the crowd with a brightly colored silicon
banded watch or a bright pink lip-stain and gloss.

Wine and Dine

Nothing says boring like that drab
black dress, tights and boots you've been hiding under all winter long. Shed
dark neutrals and dare to bare some leg with a sparkling sequin mini paired
with a similarly colored silk blouse. As always, shoes complete the look with
some sky-high heel, but spring's popular trend is a nude pump that elongates
the leg and subtly draws the eye upward. Keep in mind, however, that if winter
has left your skin looking a little lack-luster, slather on an exfoliator
to buff away dry skin and finish it off with a moisturizing lotion with a
bronzer in it.

Outdoor Fun

Since the weather's warmer, it's
finally time to venture outdoors again. If rollerblading, or biking is your
thing, try incorporating the season's neon trends into your look by creatively
pairing your knee and elbow pads with a brightly hued sports bra and head band!
If you're a golfer, try hitting the links in a light pair of khakis, a crisp
pastel polo and a great pair of ecco golf shoes.

Don't Forget the Hair

Your hair is as important to your
look as your clothes. Since today's girl is as busy as she has ever been, who
has time for those giant Kardashian waves that were "so 2011?" If you
are forward-thinking and in need of a look that goes from bed-head to chic with
a little texturizing paste and the swift tassle of the hair, consider visiting
your hairdresser for the hot new pixie cut made popular by Michelle
Williams. If you aren't quite ready to lop your locks, try rocking a sexy
beach wave. You can keep your length and still look put together with a little
sea-salt spray and some carefully placed highlights.

Be Yourself

Remember, spring is a time of rebirth
and rejuvenation. There is no better time to step out and explore fashions, but
be sure to be true to yourself in the process. After all, trends come and go,
but the clothes you wear from year to year should always be a reflection of who
you are.